Feedback Informed Treatment as Evidence-Based Practice

Back in November, I blogged about the ICCE application to SAMSHA’s National Registry for consideration of FIT as an official evidence-based approach (EBP). Given the definition of EBP by the Institute of Medicine and the American Psychological Association, Feedback Informed Treatment seems a perfect, well, FIT. According to the IOM and APA, evidence-based practice means using the best evidence and tailoring services to the client, their preferences, culture, and circumstances. Additionally, when evidence-based, clinicians must monitor “patient progress (and of changes in the patient’s circumstances—e.g.,job loss, major illness) that may suggest the need to adjust the treatment. If progress is not proceeding adequately, the psychologist alters or addresses problematic aspects of the treatment (e.g., problems in the therapeutic relationship or in the implementation of the goals of the treatment) as appropriate.”

In late Summer 2011, ICCE submitted 1000’s of pages of supporting documents, research studies, as well as video in support of the application. This week, we heard that FIT passed the “Quality of Research” phase of the review. Now, the committee is looking at the “Readiness for Dissemination” materials, including the six detailed treatment and implementation manuals on feedback informed treatment. Keep your fingers crossed. We’ve been told that the entire process should be completed sometime in late fall.

In the meantime, we are preparing for this summer’s Advanced Intensive and Training of Trainer workshops. Once again, clinicians, educators, and researchers from around the world will be coming together for cutting edge training. Only a few spots remain, so register now.